HE   KINGDOM  OF 
HEAVEN 


BR  50  .K56  1894 

The  Kingdom  of  heaven 


THE  KINGDOM  OF  HEAVEN 


[A    REVELATION] 


"  Say  unto   them,  The   Kingdom   of 
God  is  come  nigh  unto  you." 

Luke  x.,  g. 


THE   GILLISS    PRES3 

400  &  402  WE8T  14TH  STREET 

NEW    YORK 


PREFACE 


ON  sending-  forth  his  disciples  to  proclaim  the  good 
tidings  that  "  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is  at 
hand,"  anticipating  the  probable  rejection  of  their 
testimony,  Jesus  said,  "Nevertheless  be  ye  sure  of 
this,  the  Kingdom  of  God  is  come  nigh."  Long 
before  his  disciples  were  able  to  discern  the  true 
spiritual  significance  of  that  kingdom,  to  them  it  was 
'given  to  know  the  mysteries  of  the  kingdom  of 
heaven,"  for  they  were  witnesses  of  their  outward 
manifestation  long  before  they  were  spiritually  pre- 
pared to  understand,  or  enter  into,  that  state  of 
blessedness  through  purity  of  heart  and  faith  in  God. 
No  argument  accompanied  their  announcement  of 
the  glad  tidings,  they  simply  proclaimed  the  good 
news ;  the  attestation  of  its  truth  was  independent  of 
their  own  minds. 

A  claim  so  overwhelming  to  the  common  order  of 
thought  as  that  of  open  heavenly  intercourse  is  estab- 
lished, not  through  the  deductions  of  human  reason, 
but  by  "the  word  of  faithful  witnesses,"  and  the 
evidence  of  its  truth  is  inherent  in  the  very  nature  of 
that  word,  discerned  through  spiritual  insight.     For  a 


PREFACE 

revelation  of  heavenly  things  must  necessarily  appeal 
to  a  spiritual  consciousness :  "  he  that  hath  ears  to 
hear,  let  him  hear." 

The  contents  of  this  little  book  are  selections  from 
the  record  of  a  series  of  experiences  extending  over 
several  years — from  1881  to  1886.  If  it  be  asked  by 
what  means  these  words,  or  teachings,  which  consti- 
tute a  revelation,  were  received,  the  answer  is,  by 
means  similar  to  those  which  in  the  Old  Testament 
constitute  a  channel  of  "  prophecy,"  and  in  the  New 
Testament  are  designated  "  manifestations  of  the 
Holy  Ghost." 

The  selections  herein  given  are  confined  to  teach- 
ings relating  to  the  kingdom  of  heaven  and  the 
spiritual  life  ;  as  such  they  are  of  the  order  of  that 
divine  revelation  which,  with  long  intervals  of  silence, 
runs  through  the  ages  and  flows  on  forever,  for  "  there 
is  a  river,  the  streams  whereof  shall  make  glad  the 
city  of  God." 

Easter,  18Q4. 


THE    KINGDOM    OF    HEAVEN    IS 
AT    HAND  " 

[a  revelation] 


CONTENTS 

Ministering  Spirits      -       -       -       -       -  n 

The  Communion  of  Saints      -        -        -  15 

The  Will  of  God         ------  19 

The  Love  of  God      -----  26 

The  Peace  of  God        -----  30 

Messages  of  Grace  -----  33 

The  Blessed  - 38 

The  Light  of  God     -----  41 

Beyond  the  Veil  ------  44 

The  Vision  of  Peace  46 

Teachings  by  Spiritual  Guides         -        -  49 

Intermediate  Spheres  52 

The  Light  of  Hope  -  -  56 

The  Tree  of  Life      -----  59 

A  Parting  Word 62 


"  Quench  not  the  Spirit.      Despise  not  prophesy  - 

ings.      Prove  all  thi?igs ;  hold  fast  that  which  is 

good." 

I.   Thessalonians,  v.,  ig-21. 


"  Are  they  ?iot  all  ministering  spirits,  sent  forth 
to  minister  for  them  who  shall  be  heirs  of  sal- 
vation ?  " 

Epistle  to  the  Hebrews,  /.,  14. 


MINISTERING  SPIRITS. 

..."  If  you  abandon  yourselves  to  the  influence 
you  may  extend  your  life  into  our  world  and  share  in 
the  pure  light  of  Spirit,  but  when  absorbed  in  temporal 
things  you  are  separated  from  us  as  by  an  impassable 
wall.  We  would  pour  into  your  hearts  the  Light  of 
Day,  the  brightness  of  that  spiritual  light  which  enfolds 
the  earnest  seeker — for  are  not  we  your  ministering 
spirits  ?  But  often  are  we  compelled  to  drive  back 
into  the  sanctuary  of  thought  our  desires  for  you. 

"  In  the  light  that  now  shines  on  you  through  this 
communion  is  already  fulfilled  for  you  the  promise  of 
a  new  heaven  and  a  new  earth,  wherein  dwelleth 
righteousness.  For  you  may  now  look  back  on  the 
time  when  you  gazed  intently  into  the  future,  as  if 
there  alone  lay  your  hope,  while  around  you,  unper- 
ceived,  was  a  possible,  a  real  heaven.  Cherish  especi- 
ally the  thought  of  a  present  Eternity ;  it  will  refine 
and  uplift  the  mind,  and  give  a  meaning  and  use  to 
every  thought  and  act.  Live  always  in  the  Light,  for 
they  to  whom  God  is  an  ever-shining  Sun  will  reap  a 
rich  harvest  of  blessing  in  this  vale  of  struggle,  as 


THE    KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

well  as  in  the  brightness  of  the  Heavenly  Land.  The 
lesson  which  abides  with  us  here,  is  that  of  realising, 
continually,  the  presence  of  God,  in  us  and  about  us. 
For  they  who  are  born  of  the  Spirit  are  already  at 
home  in  the  Father's  House,  and  if  it  be  but  the 
lower  rooms  we  are  in,  nevertheless  it  is  the  Father's 
House." 

[In  reply  to  a  question .] 

"We  all  stand  on  the  shores  of  a  boundless  sea ; 
we  see  in  one  light,  you  in  another ;  the  infinite  is 
equally  before  us  in  this  life,  as  in  yours.  Even  as 
your  eyes  are  dim,  and  your  hands  feeble,  so  the  veil 
of  our  imperfection  is  suspended  between  us  and  the 
vast  unknown.  We  press  forward,  and  still  a  beyond 
lies  before  us.  With  constant  endeavour  we  grasp, 
and  it  eludes  us,  but  something  remains  to  bless  us  as 
a  foundation  for  more." 

Are  you  permitted  to  reveal  sacred  things,  as  in 
the  past  ? 

"  Until  the  time  is  at  hand  for  a  distinct  revelation, 
before  it  becomes  possible  for  it  to  be  a  revelation, 
and  after  the  ground  is  prepared,  then,  and  only  then, 
will  He  who  sows  come,  and  give  the  good  gift.  We 
know  this  to  be  true  from  experience.  The  Light,  were 
it  shown  you  without  a  preparation  of  mind  and  heart, 
would  be  too  strong  for  you  to  bear,  and  God  shows 
His  mercy  no  less  in  withholding  the  Light  than  in 
bringing  you  into  it.  In  His  infinite  mercy  He  will 
open  your  eyes  day  by  day,  until  you  shall  be  prepared 


MINISTERING  SPIRITS 

to  receive  His  own  words,  by  His  own  Messengers, 
those  who  come  out  from  His  immediate  Presence. 
While  you  thus  wait  the  Life  is  poured  into  your  souls, 
and  in  a  moment  your  growth  in  grace  may  be 
greater  than  you  can  know. 

"  We  see  clearly  that  man's  only  hope  of  Life  is 
by  patiently  enduring,  through  faith,  until  he  shall 
receive  the  blessing  which  comes  from  God  speaking 
to  the  soul  directly  ;  and  if  you  listen  to  this  inner 
voice,  and  obey  its  dictates,  you  will  make  a  greater 
advance  than  you  can  measure.  For  God's  own  word, 
that  speaks  to  you  through  the  heart,  is  surer  than  any 
voice  which  may  be  heard  ;  surer  than  spoken  words, 
for  in  these  you  have  but  the  interpretation  of  the 
thought,  while  with  God's  voice  in  the  conscience  you 
have  His  words  free  from  any  impurity,  which  is  mixed 
with  all  outward  expression. 

"  When  you  have  once  seen  the  Light,  then  the 
Spirit  opens  your  minds  to  the  apprehension  of  spirit- 
ual truths  in  a  way  that  was  before  impossible,  then 
your  true  life  has  begun,  then  you  are  numbered 
among  God's  children  and  are  heirs  of  immortality. 

"  The  life  of  the  Spirit  is  a  progressive  life,  requiring 
continually  the  food  from  heaven  to  bring  it  to  perfec- 
tion. This  food  is  the  Light  of  Life  ;  and  this  is  that 
Light  which  God  Himself,  through  the  operation  of 
the  Spirit,  gives  to  man,  to  each  as  he  asks,  to  each 
one  as  he  lays  himself  open  to  the  Influence,  which 
may  come  to  him  in  great  abundance.     No  man  need 

13 


THE   KINGDOM    OF   HEAVEN 

be  without  this  Light,  for  it  is  the  Great  Inheritance, 
the  common  inheritance  of  man.  When  you  come 
into  this  Light  you  may  then  recognise  a  power  of 
thought  to  which  the  natural  man  is  blinded.  It  bids 
you  see  for  the  first  time.  It  calls  you  to  take  posses- 
sion of  your  birthright  and  become  the  being  your 
Eternal  Father  has  destined  you  to  be.  Then,  and 
then  only,  can  you  be  said  to  live,  to  live  as  unto  God. 
"  By  a  constant  endeavour  to  discern  those  things 
which  make  for  righteousness  you  may  walk  in  the 
Spirit  in  many  ways  which  are  the  fulfilment  of  the 
promises  of  God.  Happy  are  they  who  dwell  contin- 
ually in  His  Presence,  for  their  life  is  real,  and  they 
shall  abide  forever  in  His  Kingdom  and  be  the  means 
of  conveying  to  others  words  of  Eternal  Life." 


14 


THE  COMMUNION  OF  SAINTS. 

[November  5,   1882.] 

..."  Remember  that  the  gift  is  not  yours,  but 
in  you.  Regard  it  as  a  sacred  trust,  for  the  bene- 
fit of  others  as  well  as  for  yourselves.  .  .  Calmness 
of  mind  is  necessary  for  the  development  of  these 
powers,  and  in  preparation  for  the  life  that  awaits  you 
when  the  flesh  is  laid  down.  Do  not  fear  shocks, 
either  physical,  or  mental ;  if  accepted  calmly  they  may 
be  regarded  as  steps  in  the  onward  movement  of  the 
spirit.  Growth  is  gradual ;  in  order  to  last  it  must  be 
so ;  but  crises  occur  in  all  lives.  .  . 

"  We  shall  on  this  occasion  be  the  means  of  convey- 
ing to  you  words  from  which  life  and  hope  may  be 
born.  The  messenger  will  choose  his  own  hour,  but 
we  are  assured  that  before  we  leave  you  we  shall  have 
his  words,  for  this  is  the  urgent  call  that  has  brought 
us  together  now.  .  . 

"  It  is  but  seldom,  and  as  a  great  and  precious  bless- 
ing, for  a  special  purpose,  that  the  Saints  commune 
with  men.     Our  means  of  drawing  to  us  the  great  and 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

pure  spirits  is  by  love  and  veneration.  We  dwell 
much  on  the  power  of  love,  for  it  is  the  greatest  force 
in  this  world  where  sympathy  is  sight.  Love,  in  active 
exercise,  is  charity ;  and  here  as  with  you  the  words 
are  true,  that  charity  covers  a  multitude  of  sins.  Love 
descends  and  broods  over  the  weakness  and  sorrows 
of  humanity.  Love  is  the  ladder  by  which  we  climb. 
Our  weaknesses  and  faults  fall  away  from  us  insensi- 
bly, almost  without  effort,  when  for  love's  pure  sake 
we  are  engaged  in  works  of  love.  We  do  not  then 
have  to  strive,  or  labour  with  ourselves,  but  purity 
comes  to  us  and  faults  fade  away  as  darkness  is  dis- 
pelled by  daylight. 

"One  of  the  blessings  of  this  intercourse  is,  that 
love  brings  us  to  you  and  aids  us  in  overcoming  the 
many  obstacles  encountered  in  this  new  path,  of 
communion  with  mortals.  But  these  very  efforts 
benefit  us  by  strengthening  our  powers  of  manifesta- 
tion in  our  world,  and  by  drawing  us  out  of  ourselves 
they  give  us  another  motive  beyond  the  desire  to  grow 
in  our  own  spiritual  life.  In  other  ways  we  are 
benefited  by  this  intercourse,  of  which  you  may  gain 
some  knowledge  in  the  effort  to  raise  the  thought  of 
those  about  you  to  a  higher  plane.  We  are  closely 
united  with  those  who,  in  the  Earth-life,  strive  to  do 
this,  and  thus  are  good  and  great  things  accom- 
plished. 

"  We  are  filled  with  the  earnest  desire  to  aid  you 
in  this  enlightenment.     Use  the  opportunity,  for  it  is 

16 


COMMUNION    OF   SAINTS 

a  question  of  times  and  seasons,  of  atmospheric  influ- 
ences, and  even  the  fleshy  atoms  have  something  to  do 
with  it,  or  we  could  not  control,  as  we  do,  the  eyes, 
the  voice,  the  hand.  Fill  the  mind  with  spiritual 
thoughts,  dwell  upon  them  when  rising  up  and  lying 
down.  When  such  thoughts  fill  your  minds  you  need 
no  assurance  that  we  are  beside  you.  But  do  not  be 
disappointed  if  this  favorable  season  should  terminate  ; 
it  cannot  be  always  spring.  Cherish  what  comes,  and 
live  on  it  in  times  of  drought.     [A  pause.'] 

"  A  pure  and  mighty  one  is  near  you.    Listen  !  " 

'  "  To  you  who  crave  for  goodness  as  the  hart  pants 
after  the  waters,  I  come  with  words  of  love  and  hope 
and  encouragement. 

'  "  We,  by  the  mercy  and  love  of  God,  dwell  in  the 
land  of  light,  in  the  kingdom  of  endless  ages.  Here 
is  undying  life ;  here  the  peace  that  passeth  under- 
standing ;  here  joy  wanes  not,  here  beauty  withers 
not,  here  love  grows  not  cold,  for  we  dwell  in  the  smile 
of  the  Face  of  God. 

'  "  We,  too,  have  been  as  you  now  are,  tossed  on  the 
waves  of  this  troublesome  world.  Now  we  stand  on 
the  eternal  shore  and  see  your  peril,  as  the  billows  of 
trial  and  temptation  surge  around  you.  And  we  hold 
up  to  you  the  light  of  Love  and  Truth  to  guide  you 
home.  And  we  bid  you  remember  that  the  day  is 
coming,  when  in  you,  as  in  us,  patience  shall  have 
wrought  her  perfect  work,  when  hope  shall  be  lost  in 

17 


THE   KINGDOM  OF  HEAVEN 

fruition,  and  when  you,  too,  shall  know  the  fulness  of 
joy  that  abides  in  the  Presence  of  God." 

{After  an  interval  it  was  asked  :~\ 
From  whom  are  these  words  ? 
"  Augustine." 


18 


THE   WILL   OF   GOD. 

[January  7,  1883.] 

[After  reading  aloud  the  words  received  on  the 
Previous  occasion,  the  folloivi?ig  was  commu?iicated .•] 

"  You  have  called  us  around  you  by  that  unfailing 
summons,    sacred  to    us,    as   to  your   mortal    ears. 

"You  should  be  willing,  and  prepared,  to  resign 
yourselves  to  the  power.  For  if  you  give  us  free 
scope  we  can,  as  you  now  know,  soar  with  you  into  the 
heights  of  divine  blessing,  and  probe  deeply  the  mys- 
tery of  the  unseen.  But  a  passive  receptivity  will  not 
suffice.  There  should  be  more  than  willingness  to  re- 
ceive ;  there  must  be  ardent  desire  corresponding  to  the 
boon  you  seek,  and  which  we  are  around  you  to  give. 
We  aim  to  supply  all  the  needful  power.  Others,  too,  of 
a  higher  order,  are  near  you,  influencing  your  minds  to 
grow  and  expand.  When  you  breathe  that  sacred 
Message,  and  when  your  hearts  are  in  unison,  the 
power  called  forth  is  greater  than  you  can  know. 

"  Time  has  been  given  that  you  might  take  to  your 
hearts  words  which  were  to  us,  as  to  you,  a  great  and 
wonderful  blessing.     No  time  is  lost  that  is  so  used, 

19 


THE    KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

for  you  gain  as  much  by  that  means  as  by  direct  com- 
munion with  the  spirit  world.  .  . 

"  If  your  desire  is  for  these  higher  gifts  you  will 
have  to  relinquish  the  lesser  communion  for  the 
greater  ;  for  many  from  beyond,  of  whom  you  have 
no  knowledge,  will  come,  hoping  to  influence  the 
expression  of  truth.  The  blessing  of  a  higher  inter- 
course will  impose  on  you  this  voluntary  sacrifice  as  a 
necessity.  But  we  can  give  you  no  higher  proof  of 
our  love  and  interest,  for  thus  we  take  you  into  the 
secret  thoughts  of  our  life  here.  We  likewise  depend 
on  you,  for  without  you  we  cannot  have  the  direct 
words  which  holy  ones  from  beyond  bring  for  those  in 
your  life.  .  . 

"  The  light  that  we  may  reflect  for  you  is  not  ours,  it 
is  exterior  to  ourselves,  shining  through  our  minds. 
To  bring  it  within  the  compass  of  words,  by  this 
means,  is  our  great  difficulty.  To-night  we  draw  you 
into  our  assembled  company  as  longing  for  the  same 
blessing,  in  the  unity  of  the  Spirit  and  the  bond  of 
peace.  All  are  here  ;  the  place  is  a  holy  place,  for  we 
all  await  the  voice  of  one  who  speaks  with  authority  to 
us  and  to  you  alike.  One  who  has  '  heard  the  voice  of 
God  resounding  through  the  ages,'  and  who  by  faith 
and  patience  and  purity  has  obtained  an  unspeakable 
reward." 

[By  another  communing  spirit  .*]  "  The  old  lesson — 
not  he  that  repeateth  the  Name,  but  he  that  doeth  the 
Will :  that  was  the  lesson  of  the  Great  Master.     That 


THE   WILL   OF   GOD 

is  a  lesson  for  your  life,  and  for  ours.  Here  we  learn 
that  Will  more  fully,  but  the  perfection  awaits  us  in  a 
higher  sphere." 

[By  another :]  "Purity  and  self-sacrifice  are  the  best 
preparation  for  the  life  to  come.  By  self-sacrifice  you 
may  practice  on  Earth,  by  gradual  steps,  the  work  of 
your  future  eternal  life,  which  will  be  a  complete  and 
perfect  submission  to  the  Will  of  God.  For  this  is 
heaven  indeed — one  will,  one  desire  ;  no  further  temp- 
tation because  all  self-will  has  been  uprooted  and  sub- 
dued. 

"  We  grow  gradually  into  this  oneness  of  will,  and 
the  earthly  stage  is  all  part  of  the  preparation  for 
blessedness  hereafter." 

[After  a  pause  the  following  was  communicated 
with  great  deliberation  and  calmness,  as  if  by  dicta- 
tion .-] 

1  "  Peace,  good  will  to  men. 

'  "  Peace  to  the  kindred  of  the  saints,  on  whom  shines 
the  dawning  of  the  Day  of  God. 

'  *'  Unite  your  wills  to  the  Will  of  God,  so  shall 
your  peace  flow  as  a  river,  and  your  purification  shall 
be  perfected. 

'  "  In  this  heavenly  country,  where  the  King  reigns  in 
His  beauty,  we  follow  His  will,  we  are  wholly  His,  for 
no  cloud  can  separate  us  from  His  love.  We  live  only 
for  Him,  we  abide  where  He  places  us,  we  have  no 
will  but  His,  and  He  is  our  God  forever  and  ever. 


THE   KINGDOM   OF  HEAVEN 

1  "  God  directs  your  way  for  His  own  glory,  which  is 
your  highest  good.  He  will  have  you  live  and  labour 
for  Him,  not  seeing  the  fruit  of  your  toil,  content  to 
know  you  are  doing  His  work,  that  you  prepare  His 
way,  and  plough  up  the  soil  of  the  world  for  the  seed 
of  the  future,  knowing  your  record  is  on  high.  He 
makes  of  your  weakness  the  throne  of  His  mercy,  the 
seat  of  His  omnipotence.  To  you,  and  in  you,  He 
draws  near,  and  gloom  vanishes  before  His  bright 
Presence. 

1  "  We,  in  His  name,  strengthen  and  cheer  you  with 
the  promise  of  the  home  where  He  in  His  love  and 
mercy  has  gathered  us,  and  where  He  will  surely  bring 
all  who  live  in  love.  There,  in  the  land  of  eternal 
spring,  of  everlasting  light,  awaits  you  an  inheritance 
incorruptible,  an  unfailing  treasure,  a  life  of  perfect 
peace.  Your  waking  souls  can  yet  see  only  in  dim 
vision  that  land  of  light,  you  can  look  only  on  the 
veils  of  the  bliss  to  be  revealed,  on  the  shadows  of  the 
heavenly  glory  that  overflows  the  paradise  of  God. 
But  look  up,  and  lift  up  your  heads,  for  your  redemp- 
tion draweth  nigh,  day  by  day. 

'  "  O,  blessed,  endless  eternity,  wherein  shall  grow 
continually  the  love  of  the  Holy  Will  of  God."  ' 

\After  a  long  silence  the  following  was  given  in 
reply  to  questions  asked :] 

"  We  know  not  the  name  now,  but  you  shall  learn 
it ;  we  also  desire  to  know  whence  these  words  which 


THE   WILL   OF   GOD 

come  to  us  all  and  help  our  lives.  In  the  great  pres- 
ence of  this  night  we  likewise  are  listeners,  and  we  also 
are  privileged  to  be  here. 

"There  need  be  no  pause  in  our  onward  and  upward 
journey.  Their  desire  is  to  strengthen  us  in  this 
cause,  and  to  renew  us  day  by  day.  When  we  come 
together  again  make  your  preparation  by  earnest 
prayer,  and  the  blessing  will  be  given  without  measure. 
And  remember  us  in  your  prayers,  for  we  receive  the 
blessing  with  you  when  in  harmony." 

[On  a  subsequent  occasion  the  follotuing  was  com- 
municated ;~\  "  He  who  came  is  God's  servant, who  does 
His  bidding ;  by  him  the  Spirit  of  the  Most  High 
gains  conscious  access  to  your  hearts.  And  by  this 
means  we  receive  strength,  which  only  comes  when 
God  speaks  to  His  children  on  earth.  When  He  shall 
see  fit  to  give  us  the  higher  life,  the  life  of  His  saints, 
then  shall  be  fulfilled  in  us  the  saying  which  is  written 
— How  beautiful  are  the  feet  of  those  who  bring  glad 
tidings." 

Who  gave  the  last  message? 

"  St.  Thomas,  the  Apostle. 

"  They  come  to  you  with  a  high  end  to  accomplish. 
Through  this  means  they  see  a  channel  for  the  spread 
of  God's  truth.  It  is  by  no  mere  chance  that  this  has 
come  about,  but  by  a  power  beyond  your  own.  Every 
gift  brings  its  responsibility,  but  your  strength  shall 
be  as  your  day.     Let  your  hearts  be  filled  with  thanks- 

23 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

giving  ;  that  is  your  acceptable  sacrifice.  Every  note 
of  praise  in  your  souls  finds  its  echo  in  the  great  har- 
mony of  rejoicing  now  ascending  from  us  all.  A 
common  boon,  a  common  gift,  therefore  are  we 
united  in  our  common  praise." 

[By  another,  m  reply  to  a  question  .•]  "  He  who  came 
is  of  that  heavenly  order  whose  mission  it  is  to  guide 
and  protect  all  the  heirs  of  eternal  life.  Their  com- 
mission is  not  to  single  souls,  but  to  the  great  family 
of  God.  Individual  guardianship  is  by  spirits  of  the 
lower  spheres.  The  name  was  given  for  your  confirm- 
ation in  faith.  When  you  have  reached  a  further 
stage  in  spiritual  progress  you  will  not  care  to  know 
the  precise  channel  of  the  high  communication.  Your 
first  Message  was  for  cheer  and  comfort ;  now  you 
have  had  your  first  lesson  in  heavenly  things.  This, 
the  first  step,  is  likewise  the  last,  for  the  will  of  God  is 
to  be  done  in  Earth  as  in  Heaven ;  and  neither  in  the 
earthly  life,  nor  even  in  the  higher  spheres,  can  that 
lesson  be  perfectly  learned." 

[By  another :]  "  When  you  have  seen  and  under- 
stood these  things — that  is  the  meaning  of  the  words 
of  the  message,  '  your  redemption  draweth  nigh.'  A 
realisation  of  the  meaning  of  the  words  is  the  evidence 
of  this  redemption.  By  this  inward  light  alone  can 
you  be  said  to  live  truly,  to  live  as  unto  God,  the  au- 
thor of  all  that  is  good  and  true  in  life.  No  one  can 
be  said  to  have  passed  into  the  condition  of  the  higher 
life  until  he  feels  that  God  himself  has  touched  him, 

24 


THE   WILL   OF  GOD 

and  made  him  live  again.     Then,  and  then  only,  be- 
gins the  true  life." 

[By  another ;]  "  Faith  alone  can  interpret  life.  Faith 
will  solve  for  you  the  enigmas  of  the  world  :  such 
faith  as  you  may  attain  to,  tinctured  with  spiritual 
sight.  You  may  then  look  calmly  on  the  trials  of  life, 
even  on  the  mystery  of  pain ;  for  pain  and  discontent 
are  the  rebellion  of  body  and  mind  against  existing 
conditions.  Let  this  be  only  a  stimulus  to  bring 
these  conditions  into  conformity  with  God's  will,  who 
is  all  good,  and  who  ordains  only  that  which  is  for 
good  if  his  children  leave  his  plans  to  be  accom- 
plished. In  all  your  trials,  great  and  small,  turn  them 
into  good ;  either  by  active  endeavour  to  remove  the 
evil  which  produces  them,  or  by  a  quiet  submission  of 
your  own  will  to  the  great  Father." 


THE  LOVE  OF  GOD. 

[March  ii,  1883.] 

..."  Gradually  the  light  breaks.  We  must  be 
prepared,  or  we  shall  be  unable  to  bear  the  light. 
God's  Holy  Influence  will  guide  our  thought,  and  the 
revelation  will  gradually  dawn  upon  our  sight.  We 
know  that  there  will  come  from  these  Messages  an 
eternal  fruition. 

"  We  can  now  tell  you  of  one  of  the  mysteries  of 
our  life.  We  know  the  Heavenly  Messenger  is  coming. 
We  know  that  only  the  thin  veil  of  our  imperfection 
will  hide  from  us  a  heavenly  and  awful  presence.  Yet 
when  he  comes  every  sense  will  be  stirred  as  with  sur- 
prise. We  shall  have,  united,  a  sense  of  satisfied  ex- 
pectation, and  yet  of  wonder.  Here  we  enjoy  the  good 
things  granted  us  without  satiety  ;  their  delights  do 
not  pall,  nor  lessen  by  custom,  or  use ;  the  bloom  of 
the  first  pleasure  does  not  fade,  but  endures  continu- 
ally. This  is  one  of  the  mysteries  of  our  life  as  com- 
pared with  yours." 

[It  was  asked  by  what  means  they  know  of  the 
coming  of  a"  Messenger,"  and  v*n  the  purport  of 
his  message  before  its  actual  delivery  f\ 

"  It  is  in  the  air.  We  know,  how  we  know  we 
know  not.  Our  being  is  pervaded  with  a  sweet  and 
thrilling  influence,  by  which  we  are  made  to  feel  the 

26 


THE   LOVE  OF   GOD 

nature  of  the  teaching  we  await.  It  is  an  influence 
such  as  we,  in  our  degree,  may  exercise  over  those  in 
Earth-life." 

[By  another  .•]  "  Be  sure  of  one  thing  :  whatever  may 
befall,  God  is  leading  you  to  happiness  by  the  easiest 
road.  Happiness  is  the  natural  result  of  the  fulfilment 
of  God's  will,  which  continually  increases  throughout 
eternity  as  your  expanding  souls  grow  in  capacity  for 
good.  God's  eternity  is  the  measure  of  yours,  and  the 
spiritual  life,  born  from  the  knowledge  of  spiritual 
things,  is  heaven  begun."     [A  pause.] 

"  If  your  eyes  were  opened  you  would  see  the  great 
company  that  is  now  gathering  about  us  ;  for  we,  with 
you,  await  a  blessing." 

[A  long  silence  ensued,  when  the  following  was 
communicated  in  a  measured  form,  as  if  dictated 
sentence  by  sentence  .•] 

■  "  Behold  the  Love  of  God  ! 

•  "  Behold  Him  who  is  uncreated  Love,  unbounded 
by  time,  or  space ;  who  has  loved  you  with  an  ever- 
lasting love  ;  who  is  the  God  of  love,  and  worthy  of  all 
love. 

1  "  Behold  Him  whose  love  is  Life  ;  whose  life  is 
Love ;  who  binds  all  spheres  in  one  by  the  unity  of  the 
Spirit,  by  the  bond  of  a  common  paternity,  by  the  hope 
of  a  common  inheritance. 

'  "  The  home  of  His  children  is  in  the  Heart  of  God, 
who  fills  all  worlds ;    realise  His  sacred  presence  in 

27 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

the  inner  sanctuary  of  your  secret  life,  so  may  you  now 
begin  to  possess  Him,  whom  to  know  is  the  bliss  of 
heaven.  Press  onward  to  the  goal,  the  crown  of  re- 
ward, gazing  steadfastly  on  the  love  of  the  eternal 
Father,  till  He  receives  all  those  who  are  perfected  by 
patience  into  the  inheritance  of  the  children  of  God. 
Then  shall  happiness  be  changed  into  heavenly  joy, 
when  He  makes  manifest  the  glory  that  encompasses 
His  throne.  Then  shall  you  know  the  serene  stillness 
of  a  soul  that  rests  in  God,  the  rapture  of  doing  Him 
service,  the  ethereal  calm  of  a  will  united  to  the  Divine. 
Then  shall  you  be  tranquilised,  gladdened,  refreshed 
and  satisfied,  with  the  fruition  of  God ;  for  He,  the 
everlasting  God,  will  be  All  in  all. 

'"O  King  of  all  beauty  and  glory,  we  desire  no 
inheritance  beside  Thee."  ' 

[On  a  subsequent  occasion  the  following  was  com- 
municated .•] 

'  "  These  Messages  are  a  great  blessing  to  us  all,  for 
they  come  from  the  source  of  All  Good.  We  know 
that  he  who  brought  these  words  of  comfort  is  God's 
Messenger.  God  is  love,  and  by  the  exercise  of  the 
love  of  God  we  call  around  us  those  who  stand  before 
the  Great  Author  of  love. 

"  When  you  exercise  the  love  of  God  in  your  hearts 
then  you  may  expect  the  blessing  of  those  who  stand 
in  His  immediate  presence.  And  we  likewise  stand 
and  watch  and  wait  to  help  forward  those  who,  in 

28 


THE   LOVE   OF   GOD 

Earth-life,  seek  the  presence  of  our  common  Father, 
who  is  ever  ready  to  bless  his  children." 

[On  another  occasion  it  was  asked .-] 

Who  was  the  messenger  who  gave  those  words  ? 

"  St.  Stephen." 

How  was  this  known  ? 

"  We  were  told  by  those  who  came  before,  and 
those  who  followed  after,  the  martyr. 

"  They  who  come  out  from  God's  presence  are 
Messengers,  whose  joyful  service  it  is  to  bring  life  to 
the  souls  of  men.  They  are  God's  instruments  for 
making  conscious  in  man  the  operation  of  the  Spirit. 

"  The  teaching  of  old,  which  came  in  like  manner 
to  the  beloved  of  the  Lord,  has  its  echo  in  our  hearts. 
Beloved,  now  are  we  the  children  of  God,  but  it  doth 
not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be  ;  but  we  know  that 
when  He,  our  King,  our  Master,  our  Leader,  the 
divine  Son  of  God,  shall  appear,  we  shall  be  like  Him, 
for  we  shall  see  Him  as  He  is,  and  the  light  of  His 
purity  will  pervade  our  souls  and  conform  us  to  His 
likeness  ;  not  only  as  by  the  reflection  of  His  image, 
but  the  influence  of  His  purity  and  beauty  and  virtue 
will  be  communicated  to  our  natures. 

"  A  magnetic  virtue  of  healing  went  out  from  Him 
when  he  dwelt  on  Earth,  and  a  virtue  of  sanctification 
goes  out  from  him  now  to  those  to  whom  He  draws 
near."  .... 


29 


THE  PEACE  OF  GOD. 

[December  28,  1884.] 

..."  We  feel  the  pressure  of  a  solemn  influence, 
as  if  our  thoughts  were  restrained  that  some  higher 
power  may  find  expression  when  perfect  harmony 
is  established.  We  dare  not  be  too  confident  that 
this  will  be  in  words,  but  we  are  sure  that  a  higher 
presence  will  make  itself  felt. 

"  We  know  only  in  part,  and  are  conscious  of  the 
unworthiness  and  imperfection  of  the  means  by  which 
this  higher  influence  can  reach  you.  Holiness  of  heart 
can  alone  render  us  meet  channels  for  such  gifts.  The 
knowledge  that  the  treasure,  though  given  in  earthen 
vessels,  is  not  lessened  by  contact  with  weakness  and 
imperfection,  does  not  do  away  with  the  feeling  that 
an  unworthy  attitude  of  mind  unfits  us  for  a  great 
duty. 

"  Here  we  are  ever  striving  for  a  fuller  knowledge  of 
God.  The  desire  for  God  is  the  first  principle  of  our 
spiritual  being,  as  the  contemplation  of  Him  is  the  end 
of  all  our  hopes." 

[By  another :]  "  The  light  that  now  shines  on  you 

30 


THE   PEACE  OF  GOD 

imposes  on  you  a  deeper  responsibility  for  these  gifts 
of  God.  If  you  find  deep,  deep  in  your  hearts  the  de- 
sire for  God,  for  the  knowledge  and  love  of  God,  you 
must  not  dare  to  hold  these  gifts  lightly,  as  if  they 
were  dependent  on  your  will.  They  are  implanted  in 
you  by  God,  to  whom  you  must  render  account.  But 
the  dealings  of  God  with  you  are  from  a  Father,  not  a 
taskmaster." 

[By  another:]  "  Be  calm  and  trustful ;  the  end  is 
not  yet.  But  that  which  you  earnestly  strive  for,  even 
if  not  attained  in  your  present  sphere,  will  be  granted 
in  fullest  measure  in  the  day  that  God  appoints."  [A 
pause.] 

"  A  word  will  come  to  you  from  beyond ! 

"  When  God's  Messengers  come  to  us  we  must  bid 
farewell  to  sense  and  sight.  All  here  is  in  the  realm 
of  faith.  Faith  alone  can  pierce  the  cloud  and  pene- 
trate the  thick  darkness  in  which,  because  of  our 
weakness  and  imperfection,  God  is  veiled." 

[A  long  silence,  after  which  these  words  followed  .•] 
"  There  standeth  one  amongst  you  that  you  know 
not! 

*  "  Peace  on  Earth,  good  will  to  men. 

1  "  Even  the  peace  of  God,  which  shall  possess  and 
satisfy  your  souls  ;  for  He  is  the  end  of  all  your  aspi- 
rations and  desires,  the  port  of  the  wanderer,  the 
home  of  the  exile,  the  fulfilment  of  your  love. 

'  "Lift  up  your  hearts,  fear  nothing,  for  His  love  is 

31 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

around  you.  By  purity  and  love  prepare  His  taber- 
nacle, walking  in  His  presence  go  on  to  perfection 
till  your  life,  being  conformed  to  His  will,  is  no  longer 
yours,  but  His. 

•  "  He  makes  you  partakers  of  His  nature  ;  in  you  He 
wills  to  dwell,  that  He  may  be  made  manifest  to  the 
world,  and  that  His  invisible  glory  may  be  revealed. 
Open  your  hearts  to  Him,  that  He  may  rest  and  dwell 
in  you,  and  fill  you  with  the  gifts  of  love.  Unite  your 
weakness  to  His  strength,  your  imperfection  to  His 
holiness ;  bear  your  human  griefs  with  Him  who 
traveled  the  hard  road  of  sorrow  even  to  the  death  of 
the  cross  ;  trust  all  to  His  guiding  hand,  and  rest  in 
the  Peace  of  God.  For  the  mountains  shall  depart, 
and  the  hills  be  removed,  but  His  kindness  shall  not 
depart  from  you,  neither  shall  the  covenant  of  His 
peace  be  removed,  saith  the  Lord,  who  hath  mercy  upon 
you."  ' 


32 


MESSAGES  OF  GRACE. 

..."  Nothing  unites  us  so  closely  as  our  receiv- 
ing these  wonderful  words  together,  for  they  are 
the  very  Life  of  life.  We  have  our  own  inward  reveal- 
ings,  as  you  may  have  in  the  Earth-life ;  but  these 
spoken  words,  which  come  to  us  in  clear  and  distinct 
form,  that  you  may  receive  them,  are  more  to  us  than 
the  still  small  voice.  God  speaks  silently  to  the  silent 
heart,  but  in  these  Messages  of  Grace  He  speaks  as  a 
Father  to  His  children,  and  we  believe  that  we  can 
hear  in  them  the  very  tones  of  the  Divine  Love. 
These  occasions  quicken  into  a  most  intense  and  vivid 
emotion  our  desire  for  God.  Of  this  we  are  deeply 
conscious  even  when  resting  in  anticipation.  What 
we  feel  when  the  blessing  is  in  the  act  of  bestowal 
cannot  be  expressed  in  words." 

What  is  the  nature  of  the  intimation  you  receive 
in  anticipation  of  the  gift  ? 

"  The  knowledge  that  a  revelation,  or  instruction 
from  a  higher  sphere,  is  coming  to  us,  is,  as  we  said 
before,  conveyed  by  unknown  channels.     It  is  an  in- 

33 


THE  KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

fluence  that  compels  us  to  deep  solemnity  and  a  feel- 
ing of  devotion.  This  influence  seems  to  pervade  our 
spiritual  atmosphere.  We  are  impelled  to  resign  our- 
selves to  it  by  subduing  every  feeling  of  self-will  or 
self-interest.  All  personal  affections  are  absorbed  in 
the  desire  to  lay  our  souls  open,  passively,  to  the  influ- 
ence of  the  Messenger.  The  love  of  God  fills  our 
hearts,  and  we  dwell  on  the  knowledge  we  have  of 
Him,  and  of  His  goodness.  Our  whole  being  is,  for 
the  time,  devoted  to  this  intention.  The  words 
vaguely  fill  the  air  till  the  moment  of  the  delivery  of 
the  Message.  When  he  speaks  it  is  to  us  as  an  actual 
union  with  the  Divine.  You  have  it  faintly  shadowed 
in  the  highest  aspiration  you  may  know  in  prayer  and 
spiritual  communion.  But  for  you,  in  the  flesh,  it  is 
impossible  to  experience,  in  equal  degree,  this  melting 
of  the  individual  nature  into  the  highest  Being  of 
God,  realising  a  union  with  the  Infinite." 

Do  the  Messages  always  come  to  you  in  actual 
words  ? 

"  When  they  are  designed  for  you  in  Earth-life  they 
do,  and  are  given  in  plainest  form,  that  you  may  be  able 
to  receive  them.  At  other  times  we  have  communion 
by  thought.  These  Messages  are  primarily  for  you  in 
trust.  When  you  read  them  aloud  we  have  a  sense 
of  the  influence  of  the  higher  ones  who  bring  them." 

What  are  your  impressions  of  them,  the  Messen- 
gers ? 

"  They  seem  to  be  in  a  state  of  absolute  rest  and 

34 


MESSAGES   OF   GRACE 

calm,  for  their  understanding  and  will  are  united  to  the 
Divine  by  love.  We  do  not  think  of  them  as  obedient 
to  God,  but  as  united  to  Him.  Their  time  of  dis- 
cipline, as  we  think  of  discipline,  is  past,  and  they 
are  ever  actively  engaged  in  the  accomplishment 
of  God's  will.  There  is  no  more  taking  up  of  the 
cross,  or  conquering  of  self,  but  in  doing  God's  will 
they  continually  advance — for  he  that  watereth  shall 
be  watered  himself.  If  they  recall  their  past  on  Earth, 
even  in  faintest  memory,  they  must  be  filled  with  a 
sense  of  their  own  unworthiness  and  cover  their  faces 
before  Him.  But  for  them  penitence  is  of  the  past' 
Wherein  they  serve  God  except  in  ministering  to  His 
children  we  know  not. 

"  You  may  think  of  us  as  calm  and  sheltered,  and 
so  we  are  from  the  physical  trials  that  beset  you,  for 
they  lie  behind  us.  But  in  our  difficulties  and  strug- 
gles we  look  forward  to  the  next  step  we  shall  take, 
hoping  that  there  we  shall  find  complete  rest.  But 
only  in  the  teachings  of  the  highest  are  we  told  of  a 
state  of  perfect  peace ;  and  even  then  it  is  not  the 
peace  of  completed  work,  but  of  unity  with  the  will  of 
God. 

"  We  are  quite  able  to  perceive  degrees  of  perfec- 
tion among  those  who  have  passed  beyond  into  the 
higher  spheres.  Some  of  them  seem  as  far  above  us 
as  the  stars  of  heaven  are  above  you ;  but  all  are 
bound  together  in  an  unbroken  chain,  forever  ascend- 
ing. 

35 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

"  The  further  we  advance,  the  more  gladly  we  dwell 
on  the  thought  of  eternity,  in  which  we  may  ever  grow 
nearer  to  God — '  Oh,  blessed,  endless  eternity,  wherein 
shall  grow  continually  the  love  of  the  Holy  Wilt  of 
God.' " 

{A pause  of  some  moments.]  "My  mother,  who 
guides  my  power  when  I  am  communing  with  you,  is 
going  to  speak  with  you  by  me.  She  has  passed 
beyond  all  the  surroundings  that  still  keep  us  near  the 
Earth-sphere ;  but  she  can,  by  me,  give  you  her  own 
words."     [A  pause.] 

'  "  I  will  speak  to  you  by  my  son. 

1  "  The  Angels  come  to  visit  you,  to  give  you  a 
glimpse  of  your  Home,  and  to  draw  your  hearts  thither. 

' "  Learn  what  is  the  Vision  of  Peace  which  the 
Blessed  see,  when  the  storms  of  Earth-life  are  past, 
and  we  stand  on  the  threshold  of  our  true  and  ever- 
lasting Home. 

'  "  We  behold  the  Eternal  Truth  as  you  behold  the 
light  of  the  sun — without  intention,  or  effort.  God  gives 
to  each  of  us,  in  our  measure,  of  Himself;  we  partake 
of  His  nature,  and  share  in  the  work  of  the  Father's 
House. 

'  "  Without,  you  still  have  to  fight  with  evil.  Within, 
strengthened  by  conflict,  the  sheltered  soul  grows  in 
the  grace  and  beauty  of  holiness.  Wait  in  hope,  till, 
attaining  all  you  now  long  for,  you  rest  in  the  sight  of 
God  and  are  filled  with  His  overflowing  love."  ' 

36 


MESSAGES   OF  GRACE 

[  The  former  restarting  „•]  "  This  is  a  rare  power,  sel- 
dom available — that  which  links  those  beyond  us  di- 
rectly with  you  in  the  Earth-life.  There  must  be  a  sym- 
pathetic chain  making  the  means  of  communion  con- 
tinuous and  unbroken  through  three  distinct  spheres. 
These  conditions,  necessary  for  conscious  intercourse, 
are  not  essential  in  spiritual  communion.  In  moments 
of  exalted  aspiration  you  are  fitted  to  hold  with  the 
higher  spheres  a  communion  that  is  more  real,  because 
it  is  more  spiritual.  Then  you  may  experience  an 
essential  union,  the  true  intercourse  of  spirit  with 
spirit  through  the  unity  of  the  Spirit  of  God — which  is 
'  wider  than  human  life,  and  deeper  than  human  need.'  " 


57 


THE  BLESSED. 

[In  reply  to  questions  asked  concerning  "the 
Blessed"  the  following  was  communicated '„•] 

"  We  know  so  much  as  this  :  that  what  we  long  for, 
and  make  an  effort  to  see,  is  poured  forth  before 
them  without  check,  or  hindrance.  But  we  believe 
they  are  ever  earnestly  seeking  for  a  further  manifesta- 
tion, for  something  beyond  what  is  possible  for  them 
to  communicate  to  us. 

"The  Divine  within  us  is  ever  seeking  to  free  itself 
from  limitation  ;  and  this  must  still  be  so,  in  their 
degree,  even  with  those  who  dwell  in  the  higher 
spheres.  Each  stage  of  life,  while  passing,  must  seem 
limited  according  to  its  ideal  standard,  but  in  every 
successive  stage  the  sight  is  ever  growing  clearer, 
while  the  aims  and  aspirations  are  continually  expand- 
ing. Your  struggle  is  for  freedom  ;  ours  is  for  purity, 
especially  that  purity  which  belongs  to  the  attainment 
of  higher  virtue  rather  than  the  laying  down  of  definite 
sin.     Purity  is  the  abandonment  of  the  creature  for 

33 


THE   BLESSED 

the  Creator  ,  seeking  happiness  alone  in  the  presence 
of  Light  and  Holiness." 

[By  another :]  "  Each  spirit,  we,  or  you,  or  others  of 
a  higher  sphere,  serving  God  as  He  appoints,  is  part 
of  a  Divine  order,  and  the  purpose  each  has  to  fulfil  is 
a  sacred  work.  God  needs  each  one,  and  he  has  an 
end  to  accomplish  by  each  one.  Is  your  life  a  strug- 
gle to  accomplish  something  ?  If  not,  it  is  no  life  at 
all.  The  light  is  given  that  you  may  follow  it  wher- 
ever it  leads ;  not  merely  are  you  to  rest  in  its  contem- 
plation." 

[  The  former,  resuming,  after  a  pause  :]  "  You  can- 
not realise  what  power  is  now  being  put  forth  to  enable 
this  means  to  be  complete  for  the  expression  of  a  word 
from  beyond.  Only  for  a  time  does  a  wave  of  force 
and  light  put  it  in  our  power  to  act  thus  con- 
sciously on  you ;  for,  as  you  know,  it  is  a  question  of 
times  and  seasons,  and  now  we  are  concentrating  all 
our  strength." 

[After  a  silence  the  following  was  communicated  :] 

'  "  God,  the  eternal  Giver  of  Life,  delights  in  the 
free-will  offering  of  love.  Yield  yourselves  to  Him, 
whose  Divine  Will  is  the  law  of  our  world.  Cast  all 
your  love  and  desires  and  purposes  and  aims  and 
hopes  into  that  unknown  Will,  till  He  draws  you  to 
Himself.  He  will  take  you  beyond  the  reach  of  weak- 
ness and  fear.  The  light  of  truth  and  knowledge  will 
shine  on  you.     Around  you  shall  be  shed  joy  everlast- 

39 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

ing,  flowing  forth  from  the  encompassing  flood  of  the 
Love  of  God. 

' "  To  the  lover  of  purity  and  the  seeker  after  good, 
every  good  gift  shall  be  given.  All  good  gifts  are 
from  the  Father  of  Light.  The  word  of  the  Father  of 
spirits,  the  King  of  the  true  Kingdom,  is  your  rock  of 
hope.' ' 


4o 


THE  LIGHT  OF  GOD. 

[May  16,  1885.] 

.  .  .  "We  must  prepare  our  hearts  when  we  hope 
for  direct  communion  with  the  Saints.  We  avoid 
all  distractions,  whether  of  companionship  or  thought. 
We  perform  all  our  duties  with  a  quiet  thought  of  the 
gift  we  hope  for.  Maintaining  silence,  outward  and 
inward,  we  speak  only  with  those  who  share  our  aspi- 
rations. Our  thoughts  being  thus  restrained,  as  by  a 
calm  and  passive  resting  in  God,  we  find  ourselves 
prepared  to  receive  the  great  gift. 

"  All  are  gathering,  for  we  know  that  the  heavens 
will  soon  be  opened." 

[A  long  silence  ensued,  when  the  following  words 
were  communicated  slowly,  as  if  dictated  sentence  by 
sentence  :] 

'  "  I,  the  Messenger  of  God,  come  from  the  land  of 
light  and  beauty. 

1  "  I  come  in  the  name  of  the  Light  of  the  World,  in 
whom  the  distant  is  drawn  near,  and  before  whose 
presence  darkness  and  sorrow  and  sighing  have  fled 
away. 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

1  "  Lift  up  your  hearts,  for  upon  your  spiking  spirits 
shines  the  Light  of  God,  brighter,  clearer,  purer, 
diviner  than  hath  entered  into  the  heart  of  man  to 
conceive,  and  in  that  Holy  Light  each  thought  and  act 
is  revealed. 

1  "  Draw  near  to  God,  who  dwelleth  in  light,  veiled 
in  the  brightness  of  His  infinite  glory  from  the  eyes  of 
His  creatures ;  fall  down  before  Him  and  open  your 
hearts  to  the  influences  of  His  Spirit. 

'"Set  your  affections  on  the  things  which  are  of 
God,  on  the  infinite,  the  abiding,  the  eternal ;  these 
only  are  worthy  of  your  love,  for  you  are  made  only 
for  Him,  and  to  become  like  Him  is  your  heavenly 
heritage.  Render  humbly  to  Him  thes  acrifice  of  your 
will,  striving  for  the  angelic  constancy  of  obedience, 
and  His  love  will  draw  you  near  and  blend  your  wills 
in  harmony  with  His  divine  will.  Let  the  joys  of  earth 
become  to  you  but  the  shadows  of  the  true ;  lay 
down  your  earthly  cares,  look  up  to  that  pure  Light, 
the  source  of  perfectness  and  peace,  and  its  beams 
shall  kindle  in  your  hearts  the  love  of  God,  in  whose 
presence  and  blessing  you  shall  forever  rest. 

'  "  To  you  shall  be  granted  a  foretaste  of  the  reward 
of  those  who  love  with  singleness  of  heart ;  you  shall 
conceive  of  sweet  delights  which  absorb  and  transport 
the  spirit — freed  from  the  burden  of  the  flesh — whose 
desires  are  fixed  on  things  eternal.  So  shall  God 
show  you  Himself,  and  all  things  in  Himself.  He  will 
dispel  all  darkness  and  ignorance  and   imperfection, 

42 


THE   LIGHT   OF  GOD 

and  shall  bring  you  out  of  the  uncertainty  of  hopes 
and  questionings,  into  the  desire  and  love  and  light  of 
wisdom.  There,  in  that  celestial  Light,  all  joy,  all 
happiness  is  found.  Out  of  His  treasury  are  shed 
forth  heavenly  blessings  for  the  portion  of  all  those 
who  will  open  their  hearts  to  receive  the  gift  of 
His  love,  and  to  rejoice  in  the  blessing  of  the  Mighty 
God.  They  shall  be  abundantly  satisfied  with  the 
plenteousness  of  His  House,  and  He  shall  make  them 
to  drink  of  His  pleasures  as  of  a  river. 

'  "  O,  Lord  of  Hosts,  blessed  is  the  man  that  trusteth 
in  Thee  !  "  ' 

[Subsequently  the  following  was  cojnmunicated in 
reply  to  questions  asked  :] 

"  A  cloud  of  witnesses  filled  the  air  when  your  great 
gift  came.  When  we  receive,  with  you,  these  revela- 
tions from  above,  we  are  filled  with  thanksgiving,  and 
cherish  the  lingering  influence  long  after  the  voice  has 
passed  away.     For  it  opens  to  us  the  gate  of  heaven. 

"  These  Messages  link  us  with  the  saints,  and  aid  us 
in  holding  a  more  intimate  intercourse  with  them. 
After  such  a  gift  we  cling  to  the  influence  that  still 
hovers  about  us,  uplifting  our  minds,  if  not  taking  pos- 
session. Let  us  desire  further  illumination,  and  be 
very  jealous  of  any  interest  which  may  disturb  our 
thought — '  Lord,  it  is  good  to  be  here  ! '  'I  will  not 
let  Thee  go  except  Thou  bless  me.'  " 


43 


BEYOND  THE  VEIL. 

.  .  .  "The  thoughts  and  feelings  inspired  by  the 
Messages  are  so  deeply  engraven  on  our  hearts  that 
we  can  trace  in  each  other  their  effect.  A  distinct 
step  seems  taken  in  our  spiritual  life.  They  influence 
all  our  motives,  our  every  thought  and  act.  Having 
told  you  of  our  preparation  for  these  gifts,  I  now 
tell  you  of  our  attitude  after  receiving  them." 

[By  another  .•]  "  God  always  grants  you  that  to 
which  you  aspire,  the  measure  of  knowledge  that  is 
meet  for  you.  You  cannot  look  beyond  the  veil,  but 
just  enough  light  shines  through  to  show  you  there  is  a 
veil.  And  if  you  press  forward  earnestly,  and  take 
joyfully  each  new  ray  that  is  shed  forth,  the  veil  will 
dissolve  before  your  eyes,  and  you  will  be  filled  with  a 
new  measure  of  light  and  wisdom  and  glory.  For  the 
spirit  advances  ever,  piercing  the  clouds  it  attains  new 
heights,  sees  new  treasures  within  its  reach,  and  passes 
from  glory  to  glory." 

[By  another :]  "  Trial  and  suffering  and  humiliation 
have  a  real  value  for  one  who  has  learned  to  measure 
all  things  by  the  standard  of  eternity  ;  they  detach  the 
mind   from  earthly  things,  and  instil  a  desire  to  be- 

44 


BEYOND   THE   VEIL 

come  fit  for  a  higher  work.  But  that  which  makes 
life  smooth  and  pleasant  veils  the  heavenly  horison. 
Remember!" 

[By  another :]  "  Live  ever  in  the  knowledge  of  the 
love  of  the  Highest,  for  love  turns  the  crown  of  thorns 
into  one  of  gold,  and  under  its  light  the  wave  of 
trouble  flashes  with  heavenly  brightness.  Love  rules 
the  Infinite  Heart,  and  they  who  yield  to  the  dominion 
of  love  bear  the  seal  of  sonship.  [A  paused  We 
hear  a  voice  from  beyond." 

'  "  Now  is  your  night,  but  the  morning  cometh. 

1 "  They  who  live  in  Spirit,  in  the  light  of  the  resplen- 
dent City  of  God,  need  never  shrink  from  His  Messen- 
gers, at  whatever  hour,  or  under  whatever  strange 
form  they  may  come. 

'  "  We  draw  near,  and  nearer  still,  to  the  presence 
of  the  Divine  Father,  in  sure  confidence  that  we  shall 
at  length  rest  in  the  eternal  temple  of  peace.  God  is 
the  eternal  fulness,  whose  goodness  is  ever  over- 
flowing. On  earth  was  the  seed-time,  now  is  the 
spring-tide  of  blossom,  and  hereafter  shall  be  the  har- 
vest. Then  the  twilight  gloomed  around  us  ;  beyond 
us  glows  the  everlasting  light.  In  some  happier  fu- 
ture we  shall  know  that  this,  our  high  noon  of  bless- 
ing, was  but  the  seed-time  of  a  more  glorious  ingather- 
ing of  the  harvest  of  truth."  ' 


45 


THE  VISION  OF  PEACE. 

[June  21,  1885.] 

..."  Our  minds  now  blend  harmoniously,  and  we 
look  on  this  unity  as  one  of  the  clearest  signs  of 
progress.  We  are  many,  yet  one ;  and  in  this  bond 
you  are  united  with  us. 

"  They  who  have  begun  the  spiritual  life  on  Earth 
are  wonderfully  stimulated  by  the  beauty  and  good- 
ness to  which  their  eyes  are  opened  when  they  come 
here,  and  this  lends  an  effective  force  to  their  effort  to 
overcome  all  obstacles  to  progress.  This  early,  eager 
impulse,  gradually  subsides  into  steadfast,  persistent 
endeavour,  and  becomes  calmer  as  we  advance.  .  .  Our 
surroundings  all  tend  to  promote  the  good  and  expel 
the  evil,  often  unconsciously  to  ourselves.  When  the 
need  of  effort  grows  less,  then  we  know  we  are  ad- 
vancing. .  .  The  reward  of  obedience  is  the  inward 
manifestation  of  the  Divine  Presence,  and  the  joy  and 
triumph  of  having  overcome  the  world.  .  .  Self-love 
and  self-will  stand  between  the  heart  and  God.   Com- 

46 


THE   VISION   OF    PEACE 

mit  your  way  to  Him,  and  trust  in  Him  wholly,  for 
He  brings  all  to  pass.     [A  pause.] 

"  Above  us  is  the  light  which  betokens  a  heavenly 
presence.  We  dare  not  dispel  the  power  now  by  in- 
dividual messages,  but  all  unite  in  saying  :  Live  ever 
in  the  realisation  of  the  true  spiritual  life,  the  invisible 
kingdom  of  Truth  and  Love ;  now  no  longer  hidden 
from  you,  but  the  real  home  of  the  soul." 

[After  a  prolonged  silence  the  following  was  com- 
municated:] 

* "  Prepare  your  hearts  ! 

' "  He  passeth  by  who  is  the  hidden  God. 

■  "  The  shadowing  veil  is  lifted ;  He  passeth  by  who 
is  the  King  of  Love." 

1  "With  the  adoring  host  of  the  Blessed  He  reveals 
to  you  the  special  Presence  of  the  great  invisible  One, 
and  with  still  small  voice  He  murmurs  to  the  soul 
divine  secrets,  beyond  the  power  of  human  utterance. 

'  "  Commit  your  way  to  God,  and  stay  your  heart  on 
the  Eternal.  Dwell  here  and  now  and  ever  in  the  true 
home  of  your  waiting  hearts,  in  the  heavenly  eden 
of  peace,  and  rejoice  in  the  love  of  God  with  His  liv- 
ing children. 

' "  Awake,  O  Winds  of  God !  breathe  on  us  the 
Breath  of  Life,  and  bear  our  oblation  of  praise  to  the 
Throne  of  Light. 

1 "  Open  to  us,  O  loving  Master,  the  higher  mansions 
of  purity  and  blessedness,  where  Thou  abidest  ever, 

47 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

that  we  may  rejoice  continually  in  Thy  beauty  and 
glory,  and  dwell  in  the  paradise  of  delights  where 
shines  the  Day  of  God."  ' 

{After  a  solemn  stillness  a  vision  ensued,  and  the 
following  words  were  spoken  with  great  calmness 
and  gentleness,  as  if  to  each  one  separately  .*] 

"  Peace   be   with    you  :    My    peace  I  give 

UNTO   YOU." 


TEACHINGS  BY  SPIRITUAL  GUIDES. 

[In  reply  to  questions  relative  to  their  own  exper- 
ience on  thai  great  occasion,  the  followi?ig  was  com- 
municated :~\ 

"You  are  to  bear  two  words  in  mind  when  you 
dwell  on  that  last  gift.  One  is,  'Your  joy  no  man 
can  take  from  you  : '  and  the  other  is,  •  Thanks  be  to 
God  for  His  unspeakable  gift.' 

"  This  is  one  of  the  many  good  things  that  come  by 
earnest  seeking.  The  steadfast  endeavour  of  all  earnest 
will  is  never  in  vain. 

"The  revelation  of  what  was  coming  dawned  on  us 
suddenly  and  unexpectedly.  There  was  the  sense  of  a 
higher  influence,  and  a  quickening  of  the  power  ex- 
erted over  us  by  the  Blessed.  Then,  suddenly,  a  con- 
sciousness of  the  presence  of  the  Messengers  amongst 
us,  with  the  promise  of  our  highest  blessing.  All  the 
holy  ones  we  know  of,  or  can  conceive  of,  seemed  to 
encompass  us  with  their  power,  heralding  the  coming 
of  One  who  is  their  Master  and  King. 

"  '  Prepare  your  hearts,'  was  spoken  by  those  imme- 

49 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

diately  beyond  us.  Then  came  the  words  of  the 
messenger  who  brought  your  first  great  Message.  He 
spoke  in  plainest  words.  The  Message  that  was  writ- 
ten in  flame,  was  from  the  higher  order,  unitedly,  be- 
ginning with  the  words,  '  Commit  your  way  to  God,' 
and  who  were  influenced  to  give  it  by  a  greater  than 
they.  Their  offering  of  praise  was  spoken ;  and  the 
petition  that  followed  it  came  to  us  in  the  words  of  the 
Blessed. 

"  The  Blessing  of  Peace — we  need  not  tell  you  its 
source,  even  had  your  eyes  been  holden. 

"  We  receive  these  higher  revelations  only  in  the 
presence  of  those  who  are  still  in  the  Earth-life  ;  God 
having  so  ordered  it  that '  we  without  you  should  not 
be  made  perfect.'  He  manifests  Himself  in  different 
ways  amongst  the  different  orders  of  His  children,  and 
it  is  only  when  all  are  united  by  an  intense  interest, 
which  really  is  unity  of  will,  that  a  perfect  vision,  or 
manifestation  of  Him,  can  be  given.  We  know,  too, 
that  the  Blessed  never  receive  their  highest  gifts  ex- 
cept when  some  of  us,  in  the  spirit  land,  are  united 
with  them  in  thought  and  heart.  Those  who  are  far 
beyond  the  Blessed,  whose  will  is  in  perfect  and  abso- 
lute harmony  with  the  Divine,  dwell  continually  in  the 
Vision  of  Peace. 

"  We  have  twice  before  seen  this  Great  Vision  in 
your  presence,  but  our  power  over  you  was  not  then 
sufficient  for  us  to  convey  it  to  you.  One  occasion 
was  when  you  received  your  third  great  Message — 

50 


TEACHINGS   BY  SPIRITUAL   GUIDES 

1  Behold  the  Love  of  God.'  The  other  occasion  was 
just  before  the  long  interruption,  when  those  few 
words  were  given  from  on  high—'  Strive,  strive,  strive, 
till  hope  brightens  into  sight  and  rest  is  won.  The 
Promise  of  God  standeth  sure.'  Had  you  but  known 
it,  the  promise  was  then  certain  that  at  a  coming  day 
the  blessing  of  His  conscious  Presence  would  be  yours. 
"  Sight  is  rarely  given  to  those  in  Earth-life. 
Those  with  us  here  to  whom  it  has  not  yet  been 
granted  to  see,  as  we  now  see,  are  conscious  only  of  a 
feeling  of  deep  solemnity  and  awe,  without  a  knowl- 
edge of  the  wonderful  Presence  which  inspires  them. 
Had  you  dissipated  your  thought  with  attention  to  ex- 
ternal manifestations  in  this  intercourse,  even  in  the 
slightest  degree,  you  would  have  been  incapable  of 
supplying  the  link  we  need  with  Earth-life,  and  you 
would  have  been  far  removed  from  the  possibility  of 
sharing  with  us  this  great  and  wonderful  blessing."  .  . 


5  J 


INTERMEDIATE   SPHERES. 

[  The  following  was  in  reply  to  questio?is  asked  con- 
cerning the  various  "  spheres  "  of  the  intermediate 
state  .•] 

..."  All  conflict  must  be  over  before  we  can  pass 
from  this  sphere  to  a  higher  one.  There  is  a  great 
difference  between  that  willing  obedience  to  God's 
will  which  can  be  attained  in  its  completeness  here, 
and  that  perfect  conscious  unity  with  it  after  which 
the  Blessed  strive,  and  which  even  there  is  not  at- 
tained in  its  perfection." 

[  The  question  was  asked,  mentally,  whether  they 
recognised  more  than  three  general  stages,  or 
"  spheres"  of  which  some  knowledge  had  been  gained 
through  previous  intercourse :  namely,  the  "  spirit, 
world,"  the  sphere  of  "  the  Blessed,"  and  that  celestial 
realm  from  whence  the  "  Messengers  "  came  forth.  It 
was  answered .*] 

"  We  know  from  those  who  influence  us  (the  Bless- 
ed) that  there  is  between  their  world  and  that  of  the 
great  ones  at  least  one  sphere,  which  bears  the  same 

52 


INTERMEDIATE   SPHERES 

relation  to  their  life  (the  Blessed)  that  ours  does  to 
the  Earth-life." 

What  are  your  chief  means  of  progress? 

"  There  are  many  and  various  functions  necessary 
to  the  development  of  the  human  soul,  duties  which 
you  recognise  as  pertaining  to  physical,  mental,  and 
social  life.  But  with  us,  here,  the  training  and  disci- 
pline of  the  spirit  is  our  absorbing  interest ;  and  as 
violent  transitions  are  hurtful  in  our  world,  as  in  yours, 
this  training  is  at  first  accomplished  by  means  of  du- 
ties connected  either  with  the  Earth-life,  or  with  those 
who  are  lowest  in  the  spirit- world.  The  perfecting  of 
the  spirit  is  our  means  of  progress." 

What  is  the  nature  of  the  cha?ige  in  passing  from 
sphere  to  sphere  ? 

"  The  change  in  passing  from  this  sphere  to  the  one 
beyond  is  greater  than  the  change  you  will  experience 
when  you  pass  into  this  life  ;  it  is  more  marked  ;  but 
less  so,  we  are  told,  when  those  beyond  us  pass  into  a 
still  higher  sphere.  All  conflict  must  be  over,  as  I 
have  said,  before  we  can  pass  into  the  next  sphere." 

What  relation  does  one  sphere  bear  to  another  ? 

"  We  have  learned  that  each  stage  of  life  has  its 
two  spheres,  linked  together  in  the  same  relation  that 
exists  between  what  you  call  the  material  and  the 
spiritual  worlds.  But  in  our  intercourse  with  higher 
spheres  little  is  told  us  of  what  would  correspond  to 
the  idea  of  physical  or  material  conditions  there,  for 
most  of  us  have  but  little  interest  in  that  inquiry  com- 

53 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

pared  to  the  things  that  relate  to  our  spiritual  progress, 
and  we  know  that  such  knowledge  cannot  be  clearly 
conveyed.  Now  we  would  turn  away  from  these 
thoughts,  for  they  do  not  concern  our  real  life."  .  . 

[By  another  .•]  "  If  it  is  God's  will,  in  drawing  you  to 
the  spiritual  life,  to  use  an  outward  ministration,  as 
well  as  the  silent  influence  of  His  Messengers,  the 
weakest  instrument  is  the  fittest,  for  then  it  is  manifest 
that  you  must  look  to  a  power  beyond  yourselves  for 
these  communications,  and  there  is  less  temptation  to 
self-exaltation,  less  danger  of  self-deception,  and  of 
necessity  you  look  to  the  Father  of  all,  invisibly  work- 
ing by  human  means,  and  manifesting  His  Presence 
by  organs  borrowed  from  his  creatures. 

"  God  shows  you  Himself.  He  does  not  need  to 
show  you  how  to  approach  Him,  or  how  to  serve  and 
worship  Him,  for  the  knowledge  of  Him  calls  forth  a 
response  from  your  hearts.  He  reveals  what  He  is, 
and  this  revelation  of  the  Divine  Fullness  is  infinite  in 
duration  and  development ;  for  His  gifts  partake  of 
the  infinity  and  eternity  of  His  love,  Such  a  gift  as 
you  have  received  was  a  direct  ray  from  His  sacred 
Presence,  kindling  inner  light." 

[By  another,  in  reply  to  a  question :]  "  The  natural 
effect  of  Earth-life  is  a  tendency  to  limit  thought  by 
things  human  and  finite.  You  are  inclined  to  dwell 
too  much  in  the  sense  of  time,  as  implied  in  Eternal 
Life.  Earnest  effort  and  the  desire  for  good  is  Eter- 
nal Life,   for  it  is  a  partaking  of  the  nature  of  the 

54 


INTERMEDIATE   SPHERES 


Eternal  One,  who  wills  only  good,  whom  we  seek  to 
approach,  and  whom  to  know  is  Eternal  Life." 


55 


THE   LIGHT   OF   HOPE. 

[August  16,  1885.] 

..."  A  new  influence  is  present,  controlling  the 
power.  I  cannot  name  it.  He  has  a  special  end  in  view 
and  dictates  from  a  distance.  I  will  interpret  his 
thought  in  my  own  words,  for  the  power  is  given  in  a 
strange  form : 

"  Those  who  have  suffered  struggle  and  conflict  are 
better  fitted  for  higher  work  in  the  next  spheres, 
they  who  have  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  day, 
who  are  strengthened  by  trial,  they  do  here  a  work  for 
God  and  draw  the  world  to  a  knowledge  of  His  truth. 
Each  has  a  special  blessing  ;  the  strong  do  a  divine 
work,  while  those  who  dwell  in  innocence  and  peace 
aid  with  their  prayers,  and  in  the  end  shall  crown  with 
their  love  the  victor  in  many  conflicts. 

"  Now  he  speaks.     I  will  give  you  his  own  words 

'  "  Let  all  earthly  care  be  as  nothing  ;  welcome  as 
blessings  the  evils  of  life  ;  see  in  its  sadness,  joy ;  and 
in  its  thorns,  a  crown  ;  for  by  them  the  Hand  of  God  is 
moulding  you  to  do  work    in  His  higher  kingdom. 

56 


THE   LIGHT   OF   HOPE 

He  purifies  by  outward  fire  the  inward  evil ;  He  draws 
the  heart  from  a  world  of  weariness  and  care,  to  find 
eternal  peace  and  rest  in  Him.  His  love  is  every- 
where, and  always,  round  you.  But  now,  with  love 
surpassing  all,  more  tender,  more  intense,  more  loving 
than  heart  can  conceive,  He  overshadows  you  with 
His  personal  Presence,  and  breathes  on  you  power 
and  life.  In  that  Presence  is  fulness  of  joy,  of  glory, 
power,  wisdom  ;  only  the  dim  shadow  can  be  seen,  but 
all  is  there,  proceeding  from  Him,  abiding  in  Him  ; 
and  in  endless  happiness  you  will  one  day  receive  it 
all  through  His  Love.  In  the  calm  moment  of  His 
Presence  the  clouds  of  Earth  will  part  and  reveal  a 
glimpse  of  the  Heavenly  Land  illumined  with  the  pure 
Love  of  God."  ' 

{A  pause  of  some  minutes  duration.'] 

"  We  see  the  bright  light  that  surrounds  the  Mes- 
senger. We  see  only  by  the  will  of  those  who  come, 
not  by  our  own  power. 

"  The  Presence  is  coming  amongst  us,  and  likewise 
a  great  company  of  those  who  share  our  gifts.  For 
One  will  come." 

[A  long  silence  ensued,  the  following  being  given 
in  another  J orm  :] 

*  "  He  draws  near  who  is  the  Light  of  Hope,  the 
Crown  of  Day  ;  He  who  is  the  perfection  of  wisdom, 
who  sees  the  deepest  meaning  of  hidden  mystery. 

57 


THE  KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

'  "  His  coming  is  heralded  with  celestial  light,  for 
He  is  the  leader  of  the  armies  of  God's  angels,  who 
go  forth  to  conquer  all  evil  with  the  power  of  Love 
and  Truth. 

'  "  Here  is  that  Divine  Heart  which  lives  for  you ; 
He  who  comes  to  lighten  sorrow  and  care ;  He  who 
has  ever  loved  you.'" 

[A  silence  ensued,  followed  by  a  Vision,  in  which 
the  following  words  were  audibly  spoken  :] 

"  If  ye  love  me,  ye  shall  be  loved  of  God  ; 
and  i  will   love  you,  and  manifest  myself 

TO   YOU.' 


58 


THE  TREE  OF  LIFE. 

[January  3,  1886.] 

..."  No  preparation  for  these  gifts  is  so  effectual 
as  a  life  of  active  charity  and  inward  faith.  A  bless- 
ing is  only  awaiting  the  complete  establishment  of  the 
power,  to  be  given  you.  We  all  are  waiting  with  you, 
for  we  never  receive  these  gifts  in  such  full  measure 
as  when  we  are  made  the  channel  of  blessing  for  those 
in  Earth-life." 

[By  another  .•]  "  Sorrow  and  care  may  truly  be  said 
to  be  turned  into  joy  for  those  who  live  the  life  of  the 
Spirit,  because  your  penalty  has  then  become  your 
purification.  Trials  do  their  work  of  conforming  your 
will  to  the  Divine.  They  who  earnestly  seek  patience 
and  a  calm  spirit,  and  consent  to  bear  whatever  bur- 
dens are  laid  upon  them,  soon  reap  the  first  fruits  by 
that  restful  calm  with  which  they  encounter  whatever 
may  befall  them  in  the  day  of  their  appointed  time. 
Thus  are  earthly  things  united  with  heavenly,  and  by 
the  infusion  of  angelic  peace  and  good  will  are  you 
made  partakers  of  the  life  of  the  Blessed." 

{After  a  silenee  the  following  was  cormnunicated 
1  from  the  sphere  of  the  Blessed' .-] 

4  "  A  Light  shall  arise  in  obscurity,  and  darkness  shall 

59 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

be  as  the  noonday ;  for  around  you  shines  the  light  of 
a  brighter  land,  and  those  who  draw  near  to  you  dwell 
among  the  angels,  and  are  fulfilled  with  the  Vision  of 
Peace. 

1  "  Let  the  true  Light  find  in  your  spirits  a  quiet  abid- 
ing place ;  so  shall  it  enrich  the  barren  pathway  of 
care  which  leads  to  the  Land  of  Peace,  and  shines 
ever  more  and  more  till  dawns  for  you  the  Perfect 
Day. 

'  "  For  you  have  passed  through  the  Gate  of  Life  ; 
woe  and  conflict  have  ceased  to  affright  you,  and  eter- 
nal refreshment  has  begun.  Soon  shall  you  see  what 
now  you  believe,  possess  what  you  now  desire,  and 
attain  to  the  joys  of  the  life  of  the  Blessed.  Here  the 
hunger  of  the  spirit  is  stilled  ;  here  is  found  its  peace- 
ful rest ;  here,  perfectly  renewed,  each  power  blossoms 
into  fullest  life  and  is  offered  in  service  to  the  King  of 
our  love. 

'  "  Here  the  depths  of  the  heart  are  sounded  ;  here 
the  forces  of  the  spirit  enfolded  ;  here  the  aspirations 
of  humanity  attain  fullest  perfection  under  the  en- 
kindling light  of  the  Vision  of  God. 

4  "  Look  forward  through  the  endless  path  of  life 
which  has  opened  before  you,  wherein  you  shall  re- 
joice ever  in  the  Love  of  God,  till,  united  to  Him,  you 
possess  Him  wholly,  and  share  His  fullness  for  ever- 
more." ' 


60 


THE   TREE  OF   LIFE 

{^Several  voices,  unitedly,  from  the  sphere  of  the 
Blessed  f\ 

'  "  Come  !  spirits  of  light  and  beauty  ;  come  ! 
visions  of  purity,  encircling  band  of  Heaven's  own 
brightness  ;  come  from  that  Celestial  Land,  and  give 
us,  who  wait  in  longing,  a  glimpse  of  your  changeless 
peace,  who  dwell  in  the  unveiled  Presence  of  God." ' 

[By  one  voice — a  Messenger :]  '*'  He  who  is  encom- 
passed with  ineffable  light  shall  so  infuse  Himself 
into  your  spirits  that  His  Presence  may  be  made  man- 
ifest in  your  midst.  He  will  nourish  and  sustain  you, 
and  fill  you  with  the  joys  of  Paradise."  ' 

[By  many  angels :]  '  "  Hail !  O  Holy,  Living  Life, 
whose  unsearchable  wisdom  disposes  all  things  in 
perfect  order.  Hail !  Thou  Fountain  of  life  and 
beauty,  who  sheds  forth  blessing  forever.  Guide  and 
preserve  Thy  children  who  call  on  Thee,  and  shelter 
them  through  the  storms  which  are  bringing  them 
daily  nearer  to  the  haven  of  rest  and  glory."  ' 

[A  silence  ensued,  followed  &y  a  Vision,  in  which 
the  following  words  were  audibly  spoken:  ] 

"  TO  HIM  THAT  OVERCOMETH  I  WILL  GIVE  OF 
THE  FRUIT  OF  THE  TREE  OF  LIFE,  IN  THE  MIDST 
OF  THE   PARADISE  OF   GOD." 


61 


A  PARTING  WORD. 

' "  Lift  your  eyes  to  the  hills  of  light,  the  dawn- 
ing Day  is  at  hand.  Go  forth  on  your  mission 
fearlessly ;  God's  is  the  Hand  which  guides  you 
onward.  Manifest  your  light  to  man,  the  creature  of 
His  Hand,  who  now  gropes  in  darkness  and  despair. 

' "  O,  Divine  Light,  that  illumines  the  path  of  the 
beloved  of  God.  Work  while  it  is  called  to-day,  for 
night  cometh,  and  with  the  night  comes  rest  to  the 
faithful  soul." ' 

From  whom  are  these  words  ? 

"  The  Sent  of  God." 

[  This  channel  of  prophecy  was  closed  with  these 
words,  on  a  subsequent  occasion  :]  "  Waiting  for  the 
dawn ;  the  Day  breaks  so  gradually,  sending  forth 
these  rays,  and  then  again  obscured.  But  that  the 
fullest  Day  is  at  hand  we  know,  and  give  thanks. 

"  Those  living  words  fill  all  voids  and  abide  forever — 
'  To  him  that  overcometh.'  And  this,  even  this  very 
thing  is  the  victory  that  overcometh  the  world — even 
our  faith.    Every  sorrow  and  care  and  trial  but  proves 

63 


A   PARTING  WORD 

our  faith  that  God  is  good,  the  Father  and  King  of 
Love." 

[By  a?iother,  in  7'eply  to  a  question  .*]  "  The  highest, 
noblest  faith  does  not  act  regardless  of  time  and  op- 
portunity ;  it  waits  till  the  harvest,  and  then  takes  a 
place  among  the  reapers.  .  .  The  better  prepared  is 
the  field,  the  stronger  will  be  the  growth  of  the  seed, 
and  the  world  is  rapidly  being  made  more  ready  to 
receive  these  glad  tidings  of  great  joy." 

[By  a?iother :]  "  The  mission  of  the  human  race  is  to 
mould  the  world  to  a  likeness  of  the  Kingdom  of 
Heaven,  and  by  giving  to  others  this  glimpse  of  the 
spiritual  world  you  help  them  to  realise  the  continual 
Presence  of  God — the  most  powerful  check  to  evil  and 
stimulus  to  good." 

[By  another  .•]  "  Remember  that  the  echoes  of  Truth 
never  die ;  they  sound  on  forever,  beyond  the  narrow 
limits  of  your  own  circle,  your  own  age,  your  own 
race. 

"  Look  not  too  far  forward,  either  with  longing,  or 
with  fear;  to-morrow  will  dawn  with  to-morrow's 
light.  Could  you  but  know  our  peace  in  trust  and 
faith  ! " 

[By  another  .•]  "  We  look  forward  to  a  day  of  rejoic- 
ing when  we  shall  see  in  Earth-life  an  impulse  go  forth 
from  those  Messages  of  Grace.  For  we  see  in  them 
the  promise  of  a  blessed  future,  the  promise  of  still 
larger  benefits  that  must  arise  from  this  beginning. 
We  know,  but  only  in  part,  that  this  is  the  first  step  in 

63 


THE   KINGDOM   OF   HEAVEN 

a  new  movement  from  these  spheres  to  yours  in  Earth- 
life.  And  when  we  have  realised  a  strength  which  we 
shall  see  has  originated  here,  then  we  shall  go  on  from 
strength  to  strength,  and  God  will  give  the  increase  ; 
so  that,  by  His  help  and  guidance,  this  shall  be  a 
means  of  bringing  many  into  His  Kingdom." 

THE     END. 


"  For  this  cause  we  also  tha?ik  God  without  ceas- 
ing, that  when  ye  received  from  us  the  word  of  the 
Message,  even  the  word  of  God,  ye  accepted  it  not  as 
the  word  of  men,  but,  as  it  is  in  Truth,  the  word  of 
God,  which  also  effectually  worketh  in  you  that  be- 
lieve." i.  Thessalonians  II,  13. 


65 


rnnceiun     ineuiuyii,di    jcniiiiaiy    i_iuianci 


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